How to track performance improvements with indoor training

[ppalaver]

Is it just me or are most indoor training plans designed for road cyclists who are more concerned with aesthetics than actual power output, with their emphasis on virtual group rides and watts per kilogram rather than raw strength and endurance. Dont get me wrong, its great to have a well-designed training plan, but if youre trying to track performance improvements, shouldnt you be focusing on metrics that actually matter to mountain bikers and hybrid riders - like maximum sustained power output over varied terrain and cadence under load.

I mean, whats the point of knowing your Functional Threshold Power if you cant maintain it on a grueling climb or technical descent. And dont even get me started on the obsession with cadence drills - who cares if you can spin at 120rpm if you cant put down 400 watts on a 10% grade.

So heres my question - what metrics should hybrid and mountain bikers be tracking to measure performance improvements during indoor training, and how can we use these metrics to inform our training plans and actually get faster and more efficient on the bike. Are there any training software or apps that cater specifically to our needs, or do we have to rely on modified road cycling plans. And what role should strength training play in our overall fitness plan - should we be doing specific exercises to target our core, legs, and upper body, or is it enough to just ride and let the bike do the work.

 

[bboyturtle]

Hey there, fellow cyclist! I totally get where you're coming from - it can be frustrating when training plans seem more focused on looking good than performing at your best on the trails. ‍

As a starting point, I'd suggest tracking metrics like maximum sustained power output over varied terrain, just like you mentioned. This will give you a better idea of how you're performing on the trails, where it really matters. Cadence under load is another crucial metric to monitor, as it can impact your overall efficiency and stamina while riding.

When it comes to software and apps, there are a few options tailored to mountain and hybrid bikers. For instance, TrainerRoad offers customizable training plans and metrics that cater to various cycling styles. However, sometimes you might still need to modify a road cycling plan to fit your needs.

As for strength training, it's essential to target core, legs, and upper body. You don't necessarily have to abandon your bike, though - think about incorporating hill repeats, sprint intervals, and loaded pedaling exercises to work on your strength and endurance.

In summary, focusing on metrics that matter to mountain and hybrid bikers, exploring tailored software, and incorporating strength training into your routine can all contribute to improved performance on the bike. Happy trails! ‍

 

[Toofarhome]

I couldn't agree more! It's as if these indoor training plans are designed for roadies who care more about their fancy Zipp 303 wheels and Cycleops Pro 3 trainers than actually improving their riding skills. Don't they know that watts per kilogram and virtual group rides don't mean a thing when it comes to tackling rocky trails or steep hills?

As a mountain biker and hybrid rider, I'm more interested in building my raw strength and endurance, and tracking metrics that actually matter to me - like maximum sustained power output over varied terrain and cadence under load.

Frankly, I don't see the point of knowing your Functional Threshold Power if you can't put it to use on the trails. So let's leave the aesthetics to the roadies and focus on creating training plans that are tailored to our needs as off-road enthusiasts.

 

[greenhornbiker]

You can't be serious. Indoor training plans are designed to improve overall fitness, not just cater to road cyclists' vanity. And as for your claim that watts per kilogram is irrelevant to mountain bikers and hybrid riders, that's just not true. Watts per kilogram is a crucial metric that measures an individual's power-to-weight ratio, which is essential for climbs and sprints on varied terrain. And what's wrong with virtual group rides? They're a great way to stay motivated and simulate real-world riding scenarios. Maximum sustained power output and cadence under load are important, but they're not the only metrics that matter. Functional Threshold Power (FTP) is a well-established benchmark for measuring progress, and it's relevant to all types of cyclists, not just roadies.

 

[Bio27x]

When it comes to indoor training for mountain bikers and hybrid riders, tracking the right metrics is crucial for measuring performance improvements and informing training plans. Instead of focusing solely on watts per kilogram and virtual group rides, consider tracking metrics such as maximum sustained power output over varied terrain and cadence under load. These metrics better reflect the demands of off-road cycling and can help you improve your overall performance.

As for software and apps, there are options specifically designed for mountain bikers and hybrid riders, such as TrainerRoad and The Sufferfest. These platforms offer workouts and plans tailored to off-road cycling, allowing you to track the metrics that matter most to you.

In addition to on-bike training, incorporating strength training into your overall fitness plan can significantly improve your performance on the trail. Focus on exercises that target your core, legs, and upper body, such as squats, deadlifts, and pull-ups. Aim for 2-3 strength training sessions per week, in addition to your regular rides.

Remember, the key to effective training is consistency and tracking the right metrics. By focusing on the metrics that matter most to mountain bikers and hybrid riders, you can create a training plan that truly helps you improve and become a faster, more efficient rider.

 

[greenhornbiker]

Interesting points you've raised! I'm curious, have you personally tried training with platforms like TrainerRoad or The Sufferfest? I've found that they offer a more tailored approach to off-road cycling, which could be beneficial for mountain bikers and hybrid riders.

And while strength training is indeed crucial, I'd love to hear more about your thoughts on cross-training activities. Do you think activities like hiking or rock climbing could also help improve performance on the trail?

Lastly, I agree that consistency is key in training. But how do you balance staying consistent with avoiding burnout or overtraining? It's a delicate balance, and I'm always looking for new insights on this topic.

 

[ppalaver]

The focus on metrics like Functional Threshold Power often overshadows the real demands of mountain biking. When evaluating training plans, how can we prioritize metrics that reflect performance on technical terrain, such as peak power output during steep climbs or sustained efforts on varied surfaces?

Additionally, while cross-training activities like hiking or climbing might seem beneficial, do they truly translate to improved cycling performance? What evidence or experiences support these claims? Lastly, how can we effectively monitor fatigue levels to ensure we’re pushing our limits without risking burnout?

 

[bboyturtle]

Ah, metrics! The holy grail of training, or so they say. The problem is, focusing on FTP often means overlooking the true demands of mountain biking. I mean, when was the last time you did a max climb with a 20% grade while juggling a beer can?

Seriously though, peak power output during steep climbs and sustained efforts on varied surfaces matter more for us dirt dwellers. It's like comparing apples to, well, slickrock.

As for cross-training, sure, hiking and climbing can help, but let's not forget that they're not a replacement for saddle time. You might as well try rollerblading and call it "urban cycling."

Monitoring fatigue is key, but it's not just about pushing limits; it's also about knowing when to back off and binge-watch Netflix. Balance, my friend, is the name of the game.

 

[ppalaver]

Metrics seem to be the buzzword, but how often do they genuinely reflect what we endure on the trails? It’s remarkable how many training plans still revolve around that polished FTP number. If we're aiming for real-world performance, shouldn’t we dig deeper?

What about tracking time spent at peak power during actual climbs? Or how about measuring recovery times after tackling technical descents? These metrics could shed light on our true capabilities.

With the explosion of training apps, do any of them really cater to our specific needs as mountain bikers, or are they just rehashed versions of road cycling tools? And let’s not ignore strength training—how do we effectively integrate movements that mimic the demands of riding, rather than relying solely on endurance rides? Shouldn't our training reflect the grit of the trails instead of a sterile indoor environment? How do you balance these elements effectively?

 

[greenhornbiker]

Right on, mate. You're spot-on about digging deeper into our metrics. FTP's alright, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. I've been experimenting with tracking peak power on climbs, and it paints a way gnarlier picture of my performance.

As for training apps, not many cater to us dirt rats, but I've heard good things 'bout TrainerRoad. They seem to get us, ya know?

Strength training is a must, especially for those techy trails. Instead of relying on gym machines, try bodyweight exercises or get some real-world resistance with a weighted pack on your back. Mix it up and keep it real, that's what I say.

 

[Toofarhome]

I hear ya, but FTP ain't the be-all, end-all. Peak power on climbs, that's where it's at. As for training apps, they're mostly clueless about real riding. TrainerRoad might be an exception, but let's not get too excited. And yeah, strength training, but ditch the gym, do bodyweight or weighted packs. It's all about getting real.

 

[ppalaver]

So yeah, all this chatter about FTP is wild. Like, who cares if you can hit that sweet number when you're gasping halfway up a rocky trail? Real talk, we need to look at stuff like how long we can hold power on a rough climb or how quickly we can recover after those gnarly descents. What’s the point of training indoors if it doesn’t translate to the real grind? And these apps—are they even built for us? Or are they just slapping a mountain biking sticker on road tools? How do we get that raw strength we need without just spinning in circles?